What's On TV

Providence (NBC, 8-10 p.m.): A special two-hour Thanksgiving episode about the real meaning of the holidays. Syd has to make it home to Providence from Denver in an eventful car trip. Joanie and Robbie learn about new dimensions to charity. The story is a complex and loving appreciation of community.

The Quest: Swimming with Giants (Animal Planet, 8-9 p.m.): The first in a year-long series. A team of scientists travel on a research ship, in this episode to the Domini-can Republic to study hump-back whales. The crew's enthusiasm makes this a fun hour. Immediately followed by a second Quest program - crocs and cave-diving.

One Special Night (CBS, 9-11 p.m.): A widow and a man with an ill wife get caught together in a storm that seems more like a snow flurry and start a blossoming friendship that seems more like a bowl of treacle. So flip that channel. Stars Julie Andrews and James Garner.

MONDAY 11/29

Jackie: Behind the Myth (PBS, check local listings): The two-hour bio captures the story of one of the most famous women of the 20th century - Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis. Through interviews with those who knew her, as well as historic footage, it traces Jackie's life from her years growing up in Long Island to her days as first lady. Compelling and thoroughly engaging.

The Ultimate Guide: House Cats (Discovery, 9-10 p.m.): From whiskers to tail, this program casts a comprehensive eye on the mysterious world of cats. Ever wondered how cats "always land on their feet?" Such nuggets are explored through computer graphics and stunning photography.

The 10 Most Fascinating People of 1999 (ABC, 10-11 p.m.): Each year-end Barbara Walters does a fascinating job of interviewing the year's fascinating people. Among the notables on her 1999 list: Ricky Martin, Jesse Ventura, Susan Lucci, New York Yankee manager Joe Torre, and yes, Monica Lewinsky. Her top choice will be at the end of the show.

WEDNESDAY 12/1

Ultimate Trek: Star Trek's Greatest Moments (UPN, 8-9 p.m.): Jason Alexander stars as "Captain Kirk" setting up highlights from all four of the Trek series, Trek trivia, and an Internet poll (www.startrek.com) where fans can choose the ultimate Trek episode.Trekkers of all ages will enjoy bloopers from the shows, which are hilarious.

THURSDAY 12/02

Sports Illustrated's 20th Century Sports Awards (CBS, 9-11 p.m.): For the past two months, ESPN has been profiling one sportsperson each week in its countdown to the greatest athlete of the century. CBS and SI take a one-shot spectacular approach to the debate with Bryant Gumbel hosting. Attending the ceremony are Muhammad Ali and Arnold Palmer, among other great athletes.